Epson LQ-500 Product Information Guide

Epson LQ-500 manual cover
Pages 5
Year 1988
Language(s)
English en

Epson LQ-500 Specification

The Epson LQ-500 is a compact and reliable 24-pin dot matrix printer, designed for efficient performance in both home and office environments. This printer boasts a maximum printing resolution of 360 x 180 dpi, delivering crisp and clear text as well as graphics. It offers a respectable printing speed of up to 300 characters per second in high-speed draft mode, making it suitable for high-volume printing tasks. The LQ-500 is designed with a versatile paper handling capability, supporting both single sheets and continuous paper, which enhances its adaptability for various printing needs. It comes equipped with a friction feed and a push tractor feed mechanism, ensuring smooth and reliable paper loading and feeding. The printer connects via a standard parallel interface, ensuring compatibility with a range of computer systems. It is engineered to be energy-efficient, consuming minimal power during operation and standby modes. The Epson LQ-500 boasts a durable build, with a mean time between failures (MTBF) of approximately 6,000 power-on hours, ensuring long-lasting reliability. Its compact form factor allows it to fit comfortably in limited spaces, while its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use. This model is also known for its low operational costs, as it uses affordable ribbon cartridges, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses that require frequent, high-volume printing. Overall, the Epson LQ-500 is a versatile, durable, and efficient dot matrix printer that offers a balance of performance and economy, suitable for a variety of professional printing applications.

Epson LQ-500 F.A.Q.

How do I load continuous paper into the Epson LQ-500 printer?

To load continuous paper, ensure the printer is turned off. Open the printer cover and remove the paper guide. Place the continuous paper behind the printer. Pull out the paper supports and adjust the sprocket units to fit the width of the paper. Insert the paper into the sprocket units and adjust the sprockets to align the paper holes with the sprockets. Once aligned, close the sprocket covers and replace the paper guide.

What should I do if the Epson LQ-500 printer is not feeding paper properly?

First, check if the paper is loaded correctly and not jammed. Ensure that the paper thickness lever is set correctly for the paper type. Clean the paper path and rollers to remove any debris or dust. If the problem persists, reset the printer and try a different batch of paper to rule out paper quality issues.

How can I perform a self-test on the Epson LQ-500?

To perform a self-test, turn off the printer. Hold down the 'LF/FF' button and turn the printer back on. Release the 'LF/FF' button once the printer starts printing. The self-test will print a sample page that includes the printer's settings and firmware version.

Why is my Epson LQ-500 printing faded or unclear text?

Faded or unclear text may be due to a worn-out ribbon cartridge. Replace the ribbon cartridge with a new one. Additionally, ensure that the print head is clean and that the paper thickness lever is correctly adjusted to match the paper being used.

How do I clean the print head of the Epson LQ-500?

Turn off the printer and open the printer cover. Carefully clean the print head using a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Avoid touching the print head with bare hands. Once cleaned, allow the print head to dry completely before closing the cover and turning the printer back on.

What causes paper jams in the Epson LQ-500, and how can I prevent them?

Paper jams can be caused by incorrect paper loading, using damaged or unsuitable paper, or dirty paper paths. Prevent jams by ensuring proper paper loading, using high-quality paper, and regularly cleaning the paper path. Adjust the paper thickness lever according to the paper type.

How can I adjust the print density on the Epson LQ-500?

Print density can be adjusted through the printer's software settings or by adjusting the 'DIP' switches on the printer. Refer to the printer's user manual for specific instructions on adjusting 'DIP' switch settings for print density.

What should I do if the Epson LQ-500 is producing strange noises during operation?

Strange noises may indicate a mechanical issue or debris in the printer. Turn off the printer and inspect for any foreign objects or misaligned parts. Ensure that the printer is placed on a stable surface. If the problem persists, consult the user manual or contact Epson support for further assistance.

Can I print on multiple-part forms with the Epson LQ-500?

Yes, the Epson LQ-500 can print on multi-part forms. Ensure that the paper thickness lever is adjusted to accommodate the thickness of the forms. Load the forms properly, and make sure the print head is aligned correctly to prevent misprints.

How do I connect the Epson LQ-500 to my computer?

Connect the Epson LQ-500 to your computer using a compatible parallel or USB cable, depending on the available ports on your computer. Install the necessary printer drivers from the Epson website or the installation CD provided with the printer. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.